Political Writings by Samuel Johnson

Political Writings

Author: Samuel Johnson

Edited by: Donald J. Green

Exploring the Political Thought of Samuel Johnson

The 18th century was a transformative era marked by influential thinkers who shaped modern political and economic thought. Among these great minds was Samuel Johnson, a literary giant whose essays tackled some of the most pressing social, political, and economic issues of his time.

Political Writings presents twenty-four of Johnson’s most significant essays, including:

• “Taxation No Tyranny” – A defense of the British Crown against American revolutionaries.
• “An Introduction to the Political State of Great Britain” – A critical analysis of Britain’s governance.
• “Thoughts on the Coronation of King George III” – A reflection on monarchy and national leadership.
• “The Patriot” – One of Johnson’s principal writings during the American Revolution.

A Critical Perspective on Conservative Thought

Edited by Donald J. Green, this collection highlights Johnson’s approach to skeptical conservatism, emphasizing pragmatism over dogma. Greene notes that Johnson distrusted “grandiose a priori theory” as a foundation for political action, advocating instead for an empirical and cautious approach to governance.

Key Themes and Topics

• 18th-Century Political Philosophy – Insights from the Age of Johnson.
• American Revolution & British Governance – Johnson’s perspective on colonial independence.
• Liberty and Conservatism – A nuanced exploration of political ideals.
• Influence on Modern Thought – Contributions to political science and philosophy.

Who Should Read This Book?

• Students and scholars of political science, history, and philosophy.
• Readers interested in 18th-century political debates and their relevance today.
• Anyone seeking to understand the political and intellectual legacy of Samuel Johnson.

This Liberty Fund edition is a paperback version of Volume 10 in The Yale Johnson, offering readers a comprehensive look at Johnson’s critical political essays.

Order your copy of Political Writings today and explore the enduring legacy of Samuel Johnson.

ISBN-13: 9780865972759
ISBN-10: 0865972753